Mission Statement vs. Vision Statement

Organizations summarize their goals and objectives in mission and vision statements. Both of these serve different purposes for a company but are often confused with each other. While a mission statement describes what a company wants to do now, a vision statement outlines what a company wants to be in the future.

The Mission Statement concentrates on the present; it defines the customer(s), critical processes and it informs you about the desired level of performance.

The Vision Statement focuses on the future; it is a source of inspiration and motivation. Often it describes not just the future of the organization but the future of the industry or society in which the organization hopes to effect change.

Comparison chart

Mission Statement versus Vision Statement comparison chart

Mission Statement

Vision Statement

About

A Mission statement talks about HOW you will get to where you want to be. Defines the purpose and primary objectives related to your customer needs and team values.

A Vision statement outlines WHERE you want to be. Communicates both the purpose and values of your business.

Answer

It answers the question, “What do we do? What makes us different?”

It answers the question, “Where do we aim to be?”

Time

A mission statement talks about the present leading to its future.

A vision statement talks about your future.

Function

It lists the broad goals for which the organization is formed. Its prime function is internal; to define the key measure or measures of the organization's success and its prime audience is the leadership, team and stockholders.

It lists where you see yourself some years from now. It inspires you to give your best. It shapes your understanding of why you are working here.

Change

Your mission statement may change, but it should still tie back to your core values, customer needs and vision.

As your organization evolves, you might feel tempted to change your vision. However, mission or vision statements explain your organization's foundation, so change should be kept to a minimum.

Developing a statement

What do we do today? For whom do we do it? What is the benefit? In other words, Why we do what we do? What, For Whom and Why?

Where do we want to be going forward? When do we want to reach that stage? How do we want to do it?

Features of an effective statement

Purpose and values of the organization: Who are the organization's primary "clients" (stakeholders)? What are the responsibilities of the organization towards the clients?

Contents: Mission Statement vs Vision Statement

Purpose

The mission statement guides the day-to-day operations and decision-making of the organization. It helps in tactical planning and "rallying the troops" around a common near- to medium-term goal. The mission statement helps members of the organization get on the same page on what they should do and how they should do it.

The vision statement is, in a sense, loftier. It outlines the worldview of the organization and why it exists. It attracts people — not just employees but also customers and vendors — who believe in the vision of the organization.

Video Explaining the Differences

What's in a Vision Statement?

Vision Statement of the Toronto Zoo

When developing a vision statement, it should be seen that the following questions are answered:

Which comes first?

For a new start up business, new program or plan to re-engineer your current services, the vision statement will be formulated first as it will guide the mission statement and the rest of the strategic plan.

For an established business where the mission is established, often the mission guides the vision statement and the rest of the strategic plan for the future.